The Las Vegas Aces have secured two wins in the WNBA Finals, most recently triumphing over the Phoenix Mercury with a decisive 91-78 score. This marks a remarkable turn for a team that began the season with a 14-14 record, now leading the series 2-0.
In Game 2, Jackie Young and A’ja Wilson truly stole the spotlight. These All-Stars have been instrumental throughout the season, and their performance in the playoffs has been remarkable. Together, they scored a staggering 62 points on Saturday, which is the second-highest combined points total for teammates in WNBA Finals history, according to ESPN.
Wilson shone as the standout player, posting 28 points, along with 14 rebounds and three assists. Young quietly contributed a significant 32 points, eight rebounds, and two assists—this performance is one of the best of her playoff career.
The first half showcased Wilson’s dominance as she scored 20 points, half of her career total in WNBA Finals, and tied for the highest first-half points in WNBA Finals history. She put up 13 points in the second quarter, leading her team to control over the Mercury.
In the third quarter, Young took over the game, scoring 21 points and shooting 8-for-11, setting records for the most points scored in a quarter in both WNBA Finals and Aces history.
“The rim felt huge,” Young remarked after the game.
Veteran point guard Chelsea Gray also played a crucial role, contributing 10 points, 10 assists, eight rebounds, three steals, and three blocks, showing her importance in both offensive and defensive plays.
Aces’ Big Three Surpass Mercury’s Key Players in Game 2
In contrast to Game 1, where bench players Jewel Lloyd and Dana Evans were pivotal in leading the Aces, Game 2 saw the main trio dominate. For the Mercury, Karly Copper led with 23 points, including 15 in the first half, but couldn’t maintain that momentum afterward.
Alyssa Thomas faced challenges with foul trouble, picking up her fourth foul in the third quarter. She ended with 10 points, six rebounds, five assists, and three steals, which is a bit below her usual performance. Satou Sabally had 22 points but struggled initially, shooting 1-for-8, before finding her scoring rhythm in the fourth quarter.
As the series shifts back to Phoenix, the Mercury will be searching for their first win. Meanwhile, the Aces are eyeing the chance to extend their lead to 3-0, potentially claiming their third WNBA Championship in four years.
Game 3 is scheduled for Wednesday at 8 PM in Phoenix.
